Ranking the Steelers current options at backup running back

3. Steelers Benny Snell

A name I thought about putting higher, but looking at the makeup of this roster, it isn’t a lock that Benny Snell is on the Steelers roster in 2021. While he has looked ok in limited action, he doesn’t produce much on his own. He runs with a lot of power, but he lacks the speed to be a game-changer. As well, he is wholly dependent on the line in front of him, as whenever there isn’t much in front of him, the play often ends in a minimal gain.

While Snell would be a fine short-yardage back, and if he makes the team that is the role he would take on, he lacks the upside to be the true backup. Honestly, he is just a severely downgraded Harris at this point. Both aren’t elite athletes, and both possess a great amount of power, but Harris can create lanes for himself in space. As well, Harris is the far better receiver of the two.

Now, if the Steelers keep four running backs, Snell makes the team solely due to the lack of surrounding options. His lacking athleticism makes him a mediocre option outside of the occasional short-yardage plunge forward. The only real perk with him is how he has embraced special teams since joining the team. Once again though, that special team’s aspect can easily be replaced by a different position. Snell will be the top backup heading into camp, but don’t be surprised to see that change as the other candidates get an opportunity to prove themselves.